Dulquer Salmaan, fondly known as DQ, has carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema with his versatile acting skills and charming screen presence. From heartwarming dramas to intense thrillers, Dulquer has delivered a string of memorable performances that have earned him a loyal fan base. This blog explores the top 10 Dulquer Salmaan movies, offering a quirky and out-of-the-box perspective on his best works. Get ready to dive into the world of DQ and discover what makes his films truly special.
1. Bangalore Days (2014)
Director: Anjali Menon
IMDb Rating: 8.3
"Bangalore Days" is a heartwarming tale of friendship, love, and self-discovery. Directed by Anjali Menon, the film follows the lives of three cousins – Divya (Nazriya Nazim), Kuttan (Nivin Pauly), and Arjun (Dulquer Salmaan) – who move to Bangalore to pursue their dreams. Dulquer's character, Arjun, is a free-spirited bike mechanic with a troubled past, adding depth to the film's emotional narrative.
This film is a delightful rollercoaster of emotions, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and the bittersweet nature of growing up. Dulquer's portrayal of Arjun is both charming and poignant, making "Bangalore Days" a must-watch for fans of feel-good cinema. The ensemble cast's chemistry and Anjali Menon's nuanced direction make it a standout film in Dulquer's career.
2. Charlie (2015)
Director: Martin Prakkat
IMDb Rating: 8.0
"Charlie" is a visually stunning romantic drama that showcases Dulquer Salmaan in one of his most charismatic roles. Directed by Martin Prakkat, the film follows Tessa (Parvathy Thiruvothu), a graphic artist who embarks on a journey to find the elusive and enigmatic Charlie (Dulquer Salmaan). The film is a celebration of life's unpredictability and the magic of serendipity.
Dulquer's performance as the whimsical and adventurous Charlie is captivating, infusing the character with a sense of wonder and spontaneity. The film's artistic visuals, enchanting music, and heartfelt storytelling make "Charlie" a cinematic gem. It's a film that encourages viewers to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the little things.
3. Ustad Hotel (2012)
Director: Anwar Rasheed
IMDb Rating: 8.3
"Ustad Hotel" is a culinary delight that blends food, family, and life lessons into a delectable narrative. Directed by Anwar Rasheed, the film tells the story of Faizi (Dulquer Salmaan), a young man who dreams of becoming a chef. When his plans to work abroad are thwarted, he ends up at his grandfather's (Thilakan) humble eatery, Ustad Hotel, where he learns the true meaning of cooking and life.
This film is a heartwarming exploration of cultural roots, generational conflicts, and the love for food. Dulquer's portrayal of Faizi is earnest and relatable, capturing the character's growth and self-discovery. The film's soulful music, touching performances, and delicious visuals make "Ustad Hotel" a feast for the senses and the soul.
4. Mahanati (2018)
Director: Nag Ashwin
IMDb Rating: 8.5
"Mahanati" is a biographical drama that chronicles the life of the legendary South Indian actress Savitri. Directed by Nag Ashwin, the film features Dulquer Salmaan as Gemini Ganesan, Savitri's husband, and a prominent actor himself. The film offers a poignant look at Savitri's rise to stardom and the personal struggles she faced.
Dulquer's performance as Gemini Ganesan is nuanced and compelling, capturing the complexities of his relationship with Savitri (played by Keerthy Suresh). The film's rich period detail, powerful storytelling, and stellar performances make "Mahanati" a cinematic masterpiece. It's a must-watch for those interested in the golden era of Indian cinema and the life of a true icon.
5. Kammatipaadam (2016)
Director: Rajeev Ravi
IMDb Rating: 8.0
"Kammatipaadam" is a gritty crime drama that delves into the dark underbelly of Kochi's urbanization. Directed by Rajeev Ravi, the film follows Krishnan (Dulquer Salmaan), a former gangster who returns to his hometown to confront his past and seek justice for his friend. The film's raw and realistic portrayal of land mafia and socio-political issues makes it a compelling watch.
Dulquer's performance as Krishnan is intense and gripping, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The film's realistic narrative, powerful characters, and Rajeev Ravi's evocative direction make "Kammatipaadam" a standout in Dulquer's filmography. It's a hard-hitting film that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and redemption.
6. Solo (2017)
Director: Bejoy Nambiar
IMDb Rating: 7.1
"Solo" is an experimental anthology film that weaves together four different stories, each centered around one of the elements – Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind. Directed by Bejoy Nambiar, the film features Dulquer Salmaan in four distinct roles, showcasing his range as an actor. Each segment explores themes of love, loss, and destiny.
This film is a unique cinematic experience, blending diverse genres and storytelling styles. Dulquer's ability to embody different characters with ease and depth is impressive, making "Solo" a testament to his versatility. The film's innovative narrative structure, striking visuals, and eclectic soundtrack make it a fascinating watch.
7. Karwaan (2018)
Director: Akarsh Khurana
IMDb Rating: 7.6
"Karwaan" is a delightful road trip comedy-drama that follows the journey of three unlikely companions. Directed by Akarsh Khurana, the film stars Dulquer Salmaan as Avinash, a disenchanted IT professional who embarks on a road trip to collect his father's remains. Accompanied by his friend Shaukat (Irrfan Khan) and a young girl, Tanya (Mithila Palkar), Avinash's journey turns into a quest for self-discovery.
This film is a charming blend of humor, introspection, and scenic beauty. Dulquer's portrayal of Avinash is understated and relatable, complemented by the brilliant performances of Irrfan Khan and Mithila Palkar. "Karwaan" is a feel-good film that explores themes of grief, friendship, and finding oneself on the road less traveled.
8. Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal (2020)
Director: Desingh Periyasamy
IMDb Rating: 7.7
"Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal" is a refreshing romantic thriller that keeps you guessing till the end. Directed by Desingh Periyasamy, the film stars Dulquer Salmaan as Siddharth, a charming con artist who, along with his partner Kallis (Rakshan), pulls off elaborate heists. Their lives take an unexpected turn when they fall in love and decide to go straight, only to discover that things are not as simple as they seem.
This film is a perfect blend of romance, comedy, and suspense. Dulquer's performance as the suave and quick-witted Siddharth is thoroughly entertaining. The film's clever plot twists, engaging screenplay, and lively music make "Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal" a delightful watch.
9. The Zoya Factor (2019)
Director: Abhishek Sharma
IMDb Rating: 4.3
"The Zoya Factor" is a quirky romantic comedy based on the novel by Anuja Chauhan. Directed by Abhishek Sharma, the film stars Dulquer Salmaan as Nikhil Khoda, the captain of the Indian cricket team, who is skeptical of superstitions. Zoya (Sonam Kapoor), on the other hand, is considered a lucky charm for the team. The film explores their unlikely romance amidst the backdrop of cricket and superstition.
Although not as critically acclaimed as some of his other films, "The Zoya Factor" is a light-hearted and fun watch. Dulquer's charming portrayal of Nikhil Khoda adds a refreshing touch to the film. The chemistry between Dulquer and Sonam Kapoor, along with the film's humorous take on luck and love, makes it an enjoyable rom-com.
10. CIA: Comrade in America (2017)
Director: Amal Neerad
IMDb Rating: 6.7
"CIA: Comrade in America" is an action-adventure film directed by Amal Neerad. The film follows Aji Mathew (Dulquer Salmaan), a fearless communist from Kerala, who embarks on a dangerous journey to the United States to reunite with his girlfriend. The film combines political themes with a gripping adventure, showcasing Dulquer in a rugged and action-packed role.
This film is an exhilarating mix of action, romance, and political drama. Dulquer's performance as Aji Mathew is intense and dynamic, adding depth to the film's adventurous narrative. The film's thrilling sequences, scenic locations, and powerful storytelling make "CIA: Comrade in America" a must-watch for action enthusiasts.
The Impact of Dulquer Salmaan on Indian Cinema
Dulquer Salmaan's impact on Indian cinema extends beyond his memorable performances. He has brought a breath of fresh air to the industry with his choice of diverse and unconventional roles. This section explores his influence on modern cinema and how he has redefined the concept of a contemporary Indian actor.
Why Dulquer Salmaan's Movies Stand Out
Dulquer Salmaan's movies are known for their strong narratives, well-developed characters, and his compelling performances. His ability to adapt to different genres and deliver nuanced portrayals has set him apart in the industry. This section explores what makes Dulquer's movies unique and why they resonate with audiences.
FAQs
1. What are some of Dulquer Salmaan's highest-rated movies?
Some of Dulquer Salmaan's highest-rated movies include "Bangalore Days," "Charlie," "Ustad Hotel," "Mahanati," and "Kammatipaadam." These films showcase his versatility and exceptional acting skills.
2. Which Dulquer Salmaan movie should I watch first?
For those new to Dulquer Salmaan's filmography, starting with "Bangalore Days" or "Charlie" is a good choice. These films highlight his range as an actor and feature standout performances.
3. Are Dulquer Salmaan's movies available on streaming platforms?
Yes, many of Dulquer Salmaan's movies are available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar. Check the respective platform's library for availability.
4. What makes Dulquer Salmaan a unique actor in Indian cinema?
Dulquer Salmaan's versatility, choice of unconventional roles, and commitment to high-quality storytelling make him a unique actor in Indian cinema. His performances often bring depth and authenticity to the characters he portrays.
5. Has Dulquer Salmaan worked in other languages besides Malayalam?
Yes, Dulquer Salmaan has worked in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi films, earning acclaim for his performances in various languages.
6. What is Dulquer Salmaan's latest movie?
Dulquer Salmaan's latest notable movie is "Kurup," a crime thriller based on the real-life story of Sukumara Kurup. The film has received positive reviews for its engaging narrative and Dulquer's compelling performance.
Dulquer Salmaan has carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema with his versatile roles and compelling performances. From classic hits like "Bangalore Days" and "Charlie" to recent successes like "Mahanati" and "Kurup," his filmography is a testament to his talent and dedication. As he continues to explore new horizons in cinema, audiences can look forward to more exceptional performances from this talented actor.
